I had never hated myself more. Or felt more truly myself.
"Where Are You, Echo Blue?" by Hayley Krischer is a compelling page-turner that explores the I had never hated myself more. Or felt more truly myself.
"Where Are You, Echo Blue?" by Hayley Krischer is a compelling page-turner that explores the dark side of celebrity culture, child stardom, and the obsessive nature of fandom. This smart and juicy read weaves together the lives and perspectives of both celebrity and fan, offering a fresh take on the price of ambition.
The story follows Goldie, an ambitious young journalist whose big break comes when Echo Blue, a famous child star from the nineties, mysteriously disappears just before a highly publicized television event on New Year's Eve, 1999. Goldie, a lifelong fan of Echo, is determined to uncover the truth behind her idol's disappearance. Her investigation takes her deep into Echo's troubled life, filled with parental conflicts, rehab stints, and toxic relationships. As Goldie gets closer to the truth, she begins to question her own role in Echo's downfall.
Krischer alternates between Goldie's frantic search and Echo's tumultuous past, creating a thought-provoking dual narrative. The novel shines in its exploration of the darker aspects of fame and the pressures faced by those who grow up in the spotlight. Echo's story is reminiscent of real-life child stars like Drew Barrymore and Lindsay Lohan, adding a layer of authenticity to her struggles. Goldie's character, though sometimes frustrating in her relentless ambition, is ultimately relatable and human, reflecting the complicated relationship between fans and their idols. Krischer doesn't shy away from highlighting the exploitation and objectification that often accompany fame, making the reader reflect on their own complicity in this culture.
While the ending may feel a bit too conclusive for some, it provides a satisfying resolution to both Echo's and Goldie's arcs. The novel's strength lies in its ability to keep the reader hooked until the very end, blending suspense with emotional depth.
In summary, "Where Are You, Echo Blue?" is a compelling read that offers a nuanced look at the complexities of fame and the cost of ambition. With its sharp prose and well-drawn characters, Hayley Krischer has crafted a novel that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. Highly recommended for those interested in stories about the impact of celebrity culture and the relentless pursuit of truth.
Thank you to NetGalley and Dutton for providing an early copy of this book. ...more
"I was never a child." "That's the thing, though. You were."
"Madwoman" by Chelsea Bieker - her sophomore novel and follow-up to Godshot - is an emotion"I was never a child." "That's the thing, though. You were."
"Madwoman" by Chelsea Bieker - her sophomore novel and follow-up to Godshot - is an emotionally charged and gripping literary thriller that delves into the complexities of motherhood, trauma, and survival. With raw intensity and masterful storytelling, this book is a poignant exploration of motherhood and the indomitable spirit of women.
The story follows Clove, who appears to have the perfect life, with a loving husband and two sweet children. However, Clove has secrets, and when she receives a letter from a women's prison in California, her past threatens to collide with her present. As Clove grapples with the memories from her traumatic childhood, she's forced to face the reality of her mother's incarceration, and the violence that has shaped her life.
The writing here is brutal and haunting, alternating between Clove's present day in Portland and her childhood in Hawaii, and allowing readers to piece together the puzzle of Clove's past. The tension and sense of dread builds steadily, ultimately culminating in what is truly a surprising and heart-wrenching climax.
This is a profound commentary on the cycle of violence and the lengths women can - and often, must - go to to escape it. Bieker explores generational trauma, societal expectations of motherhood, and how far women will go to protect themselves and those they love.
In summary, "Madwoman" is a tour de force that cements Chelsea Bieker’s place as a major talent in contemporary fiction. It is a story of pain and redemption, of love and loss, and of the fierce determination of a woman to reclaim her life. This book is an unforgettable read that will resonate with readers long after they turn the final page.
Thank you to Little, Brown and Company for providing an early copy of this remarkable novel....more
"The Next Best Fling" by Gabriella Gamez is a charming and spicy debut romance that delivers a delightful mix of humor, heart, and heat. Marcela Ortiz"The Next Best Fling" by Gabriella Gamez is a charming and spicy debut romance that delivers a delightful mix of humor, heart, and heat. Marcela Ortiz, a librarian with a secret crush on her best friend, finds herself entangled in a no-strings-attached relationship with Theo Young, an ex-NFL player and the older brother of the man she’s in love with. What starts as a convenient cover-up for their unrequited feelings quickly turns into a passionate and complicated romance.
Marcela has been pining for her best friend for years, but when he gets engaged, she knows it’s time to move on. Enter Theo, who drunkenly plans to confess his love for his brother’s fiancée at their engagement party. Marcela steps in to stop him, and one thing leads to another, leading everyone to believe they’ve hooked up. Needing a distraction from their respective heartaches, they decide to keep up the charade.
Theo is a cinnamon roll hero with a heart of gold. Despite his initial attraction to his brother's fiancée, his chemistry with Marcela is undeniable. Their relationship, filled with late-night bar escapades and steamy moments in library aisles, evolves from a simple rebound to something much deeper. Marcela’s journey from unrequited love to self-discovery and acceptance is both relatable and inspiring.
The book is a fun and breezy read, perfect for those who love a mix of humor and drama in their romances. Gamez does a great job of balancing the light-hearted moments with more serious themes, such as body image issues and family dynamics. Marcela’s insecurities about her plus-size figure are handled with sensitivity and realism, and Theo’s unwavering support and admiration for her are heartwarming.
However, the book isn’t without its flaws. The pacing can be uneven at times, with a slow start that picks up significantly in the second half. Some of the plot twists are predictable, and the resolution of the central conflict feels a bit rushed. Despite these minor issues, the story’s charm and the characters’ chemistry keep you hooked until the end.
Overall, "The Next Best Fling" is a sweet and engaging romance that will leave you smiling. Gabriella Gamez’s debut is a promising start, and I’m excited to see what she writes next. If you’re looking for a light, feel-good romance with a touch of spice, this book is definitely worth a read.
Thank you to Forever Publishing for the ARC!...more
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